VW Golf GTD finance deal; Nissan Terrano to launch in India; new MD at Volkswagen UK; new Fiat Punto Sporting trim; new diesel for Audi A3
The Nissan Terrano will be launched on 20 August in India. The SUV is based on the Dacia Duster, but features all-new sheet metal to bring it in line with Nissan's latest design language. Both cars will share the same cabin in order to reduce costs
The Volkswagen Golf GTD is available for £199 a month on Volkswagen’s Solutions PCP. The deal is over a three-year period with a deposit of £7,237.55 and an optional final payment of £14,006.70. All vehicles purchased on Solutions are available with a three-year or 30,000-mile service plan for £199.
Paul Willcox has been appointed MD Volkswagen Group UK, taking over from Simon Thomas who now becomes global head of marketing for the Volkswagen Group. Willcox was previously senior vice president, sales and marketing for Europe at Nissan and held roles at Peugeot GB. He will be responsible for Audi, Seat, Skoda and Volkswagen passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
The Fiat Punto range has been revised with a raft of equipment. The range now comprises of Pop, Easy, GBT and a new Sporting variant. Lounge and Twinair models have been deleted, but the Twinair engine remains fitted to Easy and GBT Puntos. Sporting models feature a rear spoiler, side skirts, a gloss black roof and sports suspension. Sporting models are priced from £12,355.
Audi has introduced a 181bhp version of its 2.0-litre TDI engine to its A3 and A3 Sportback models. It is offered in front-wheel drive and Quattro models in Sport and S-line specifications. Audi claims 0-62mph in 7.3sec, 108g/km and 68.9mpg. The engine will be offered in saloon versions later. Other new options include new LED headlights and a black styling package.
Former Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby has been hired by General Motors to steer its international operations. He replaces Tim Lee who becomes chairman of GM China. Jacoby stepped down from Volvo last year after suffering a mild stroke. He previously held senior positions at Mitsubishi and Volkswagen. His appointment will see him leading GM's operations in more than 100 markets.